We set off from Maraha early in the morning - just the 7 of us and our guide. After some technical problems (pedals not working on two of the kayaks) we managed to set off. We travelled a total of 11 kms along the coast - stopping at seclued beaches along the way for coffee and for lunch. One stretch of coast, known as the Mad Mile, was particularly good fun - huge waves threatened to capsize us but we all managed to stay afloat!

We arrived, stiff and weary, at Anchorage Bay around 4pm and met Jane our hostess for the night. She ferried us by dinghy to her houseboat called the Etosha where we stayed for the night. Next morning we headed off on a 16 km hike, along the coast to Onetahuti Bay - terrific walk with some amazing sights. Weather was fantastic -we felt like we could have been on a remote island in the Pacific!

We got picked up at Onetahuti Bay by speed boats - known as AquaTaxis where we were brought back to Maraha. We spent the night in the happening town of Motueka where we had much deserved hot showers and pints!!

The trip cost $160 NZD each but we got a 10% discount due to the size of our group. The cost includes a brief lesson in safetly and kayak use, equipment rental, guided kayak trip including morning tea and lunch. On arrival at the Etosha houseboat we were also served afternoon tea, dinner, a great night's sleep breakfast the following morning and a packed lunch to help us through our hike. The return by water taxi to Maraha was also included.

It is also possible to rent kayaks for unguided trips from this company.

For more information, see: http://www.seakayaknz.co.nz/